Morphological Differentiation and Hybridization between Quercus alnifolia Poech and Quercus coccifera L. (Fagaceae) in Cyprus

Analysis of morphological traits was carried out in order to provide insights regarding differentiation and hybridization between two evergreen oak species, the golden oak (Quercus alnifolia Poech) and the holly oak (Quercus coccifera L.) in Cyprus. The holly oak shows a higher degree of morphological diversity, in comparison to the endemic golden oak, which is confined to the ultrabasic rock formations of the Troodos Massif. The parental species can be clearly distinguished. Each species forms both pure and sympatric populations; no significant differences were observed at the within species level. Analysis of mixed stands indicates active but limited genetic introgression and hybridization between the two oaks. Designated hybrids form a distinct group in multivariate space being morphologically closer to the golden oak. Backcrossing events have been implicated from multivariate analysis, while hybrids appear to be more similar to Q. alnifolia.

Treeshelter Use in Producing Container-grown Trees

Treeshelters were used for the nursery production of Cedrus deodara Loud. (deodar cedar), Quercus ilex L. (holly oak), and Magnolia grandiflora L. (southern magnolia) trees growing in 19-liter containers. Air temperature, relative humidity, and CO, concentration were higher inside the treeshelters than outside. Trees grown inside treeshelters were 74% to 174% taller than trees grown without shelters. Trunk caliper of Magnolia and Quercus was not affected, however, for Cedrus trees caliper was larger for trees grown without a shelter. Upon removal of the shelter, Cedrus trees were incapable of supporting their own weight. Lateral branch development was inhibited and leaf senescence was greater with Magnolia trees grown in a shelter. Quercus trees grown in shelters were ready to be transplanted into the landscape. Water use was similar for trees grown with or without shelters. Trees grown in shelters had lower root fresh weights.

A Mammoth Fraud in Science

The Holly Oak pendant is a shaped piece of marine whelk (Busycon sinistrum) shell with two holes drilled in one end that bears an incised depiction of an extinct proboscidean (woolly mammoth or mastodon). It allegedly was recovered in 1864 from an archaeological site in Delaware. There was speculation in the 1970s as to its age and significance, and it was illustrated and cited as a Paleoindian artifact of Pleistocene age. Subsequent analyses indicated the artifact was fraudulent: The engraving probably was done in the 1880s on a shell recovered from an archaeological site. This has been confirmed by a recently obtained AMS radiocarbon date. The Holly Oak pendant is a modern forgery.